Community Workshops

Scriptwriting, Family Memories, Intimacy in Fiction, and Nature Poetry in the Fall Schedule

Vachel Lindsay expressed on many occasions his firm belief that educating the community in the appreciation and creation of literary arts was a worthy pursuit, and as such the VLA is committed to offering workshops to local writers of all levels who want to explore the craft of writing with a group of other interested individuals.

October 5, 1-4 p.m
“It’s Just Not My Scene (or Is It?)” with Penny Pennell & Amy Sayre Baptista
Participants will spend the morning breaking down the scene and learning more about the differences between writing for stage and screen. Among the topics covered will be how to utilize the three-act structure and how to better understand dialogue. By the end of the workshop, attendees will have a good grasp of plot, character, theme and voice, and know how to take drafts to completion. Attendees also have the option to workshop scenes and should feel free to bring treatments and scenes with them. ($15)

.October 19, 1-3 p.m.
“How to Write Intimacy (or How Not to)” with Ted Morrissey
Writers have to be prepared to take their narrative wherever it wants to lead, and oftentimes it’s leading them to the bedroom, beach or backseat. No matter whether you’re writing popular or literary fiction, there are some do’s and don’ts when it comes to writing about intimacy. This workshop will draw from some of the masters of contemporary narrative and discuss what techniques help create effectively evocative scenes, and which techniques feel forced and fall flat. ($10)

November 2, 1-3 p.m.
“Talking It over” with Penny Pennell
In this workshop, participants will learn to fine tune natural sounding dialogue, use dialogue to propel the story, and help strengthen the voices of individual characters. All levels of writing experience are welcome. ($10)

November 16, 1-4 p.m.
“Writing from Family Materials” with Amy SpiesBeginning and experienced writers are invited to bring family memorabilia (or copies) and an open heart to begin exploring and writing the history, memories, and materiality of family. Participants will be able, but are not required, to share in-class writing. ($15).

December 7, 1-3 p.m.“Postmodern Pastoral” with Adam Clay
What does it mean to write about nature in an age driven largely by technology? Participants will explore modes of writing about nature from both traditional and experimental places by examining recently published poems as models for their work. ($10

The registration fee for each workshop is $15 (or $10 for Vachel Lindsay Association members). Registration forms are due one week prior to the workshop. Download a Workshop Registration Form.

Contact VLA at vachellindsay@gmail.com or via the Contact page if you have questions.

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2 thoughts on “Community Workshops”

I just learned about the work shop on Sunday. Is there a chance that I can still register for this workshop. I could bring the money and registration form on Sunday. Please pardon my being so late, I feel this work shop would be of benefit to me. I appreciate your attention in this matter.